In recent years the number of older applicants for Higher Education has risen. You can be classed as a mature student from as young as 21 years of age (19 if you attend an FE college). More and more people are now choosing to continue learning in their 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s and sometimes even older.
Mature applicants are often valued for their degree of focus, and drive. For this reason institutions are often prepared to relax strict entry requirements, but you will often have to provide proof of your ability to study at a higher level. This can be done by means such as A Levels or National Diploma or through taking an Access Course or Foundation Course. In some cases you may be able to gain accreditation for study or relevant work you have undertaken – each case is judged on its own merit.
Options for mature students
Mature students have a range of factors to think about when choosing a course, such as fitting their study around home life and/or work. There are means that help them with this balance. Many universities now offer modular and part-time courses. Many also have childcare facilities. Some further education colleges run HND courses and even degree courses on a franchise basis with local universities. The Open University, National Extension College and Open College of the Arts offer a wide range of courses through distance learning which allow you to study in your own time at home. Some courses may also be on offer via the web.
Finance
As a mature student with dependants or if you are a single parent, you may be able to apply for a means tested grant for help with meeting certain living costs. If you are married your spouse's income will be taken into account. If you are under 25 and have not been supporting yourself for at least three years prior to the start of the course, your parents' income will be taken into account. You are also entitled to apply for a student loan and for a means tested Assembly Learning Grant. Contact your Local Education Authority for advice and application forms.
Other financial support may be available in the form of help with child care costs, Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit. If you are not able to get financial help from elsewhere, you may qualify for a Career Development Loan. Those taking part time courses may not qualify for the same degree of financial help as those who study on full time courses. Visit Money Matters for more details.
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